Releases

A “release” is an agreement by which someone waives (gives up) any rights to sue arising from a certain activity. A release is usually needed when a publication (or broadcast) of a person’s name or image may trigger legal claims such as defamation, invasion of privacy, or violation of the right of publicity. These types of legal claims are personal and relate to false statements, intrusions into personal affairs, or commercial uses of a personality. The person signing the release usually forgoes any right to sue over these claims.

Traditionally, releases (sometimes known as “model releases”) are needed when a person’s name or image is used for commercial purposes. However, there may be other instances, as described within this chapter, in which it may be prudent to obtain a signed release. This chapter provides samples and explanations of two types of personal releases, a release to use interview statements, and a release to use images of property (such as photos of a building) in an advertisement.

Secondary Content

On January 28, 2014, Stanford’s Program in Law, Science & Technology hosted the discussion, “Congratulations, you have an app – now what? App Development and Marketing from A-Z.” The discussion featured a panel of high level, experienced practitioner who provide tips, checklists and a road map for addressing legal considerations relating to mobile apps, including best practices for mobile TOU and Privacy Policies, platform considerations and much more.